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Google Ads vs. Facebook Ads: Which Is Right for Your Business?

  • Writer: Jacki Minahan
    Jacki Minahan
  • Jul 3
  • 2 min read

Paid advertising is one of the fastest ways to get your brand in front of your ideal audience. But when it comes to platforms - should you invest in Google Ads or Facebook Ads? Both are powerful, but they work very differently.


Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which one aligns best with your goals, audience, and offer.


1. The core difference

Google Ads = Intent-based

People are actively searching for what you offer.


Facebook Ads = Interruption-based. 

You're targeting users based on interests, not search.


Think:

Google = “I'm looking to buy”

Facebook = “I wasn’t looking, but now I’m curious”


2. Who each platform suits best

Google Ads is ideal if…

  • Your offer solves a problem people are searching for

  • You want high-converting traffic

  • You’re in a competitive or service-based niche


Facebook Ads are ideal if…

  • You want to build brand awareness + nurture over time

  • You’re launching an online offer, course, or freebie

  • You have strong visuals and messaging


3. The budget breakdown

Google Ads: Higher cost-per-click, but more qualified leads.


Facebook Ads: Lower cost-per-click, broader top-of-funnel reach.


Tip: Budget is less about the platform, and more about how well your campaign is set up

(ps - we also have a blog post on "Choosing the right objective for your Facebook ads").


4. The best strategy? Both.

Want to maximise reach and conversions? Many businesses run both, targeting different stages of the funnel.


For example:

  • Google Ads for high-intent keywords

  • Facebook Ads to promote your lead magnet or nurture audience

5. Common mistakes to avoid

 🚫 Sending traffic to your homepage (no clear CTA)


 🚫 Not installing tracking tools (Pixel, GA4)


 🚫 No follow-up email sequence in place


Want more tips on tracking with Google Anayltics? Read here.


Final Thoughts

Paid ads can be a game-changer for small businesses - but only when there’s strategy behind them. At Jac & Co Digital, we don’t just run ads, we craft conversion-driven marketing campaigns to get you real results.

Ready to get smarter with your paid marketing? At Jac & Co Digital, we create strategy-led content and campaigns to grow your service business - without the overwhelm.


📩 Reach out here or connect with me on Instagram @jacandcodigital.

 
 
 

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